Paros is a charming Greek island in the Cyclades, known for its stunning beaches, traditional whitewashed villages, and authentic Greek charm. It might not be as famous as Santorini or Mykonos, but it undoubtedly deserves more attention. In fact, readers of the renowned Travel + Leisure magazine have described Paros as the most beautiful island in Europe. While I prefer not to label any place as the “best” or “most beautiful,” since each destination has its unique charm, Paros quickly became our favorite. We completely fell in love with its picturesque beauty and couldn’t stop taking photos. In many ways, we even preferred it to Santorini, and certainly over Mykonos, as we weren’t seeking a nightlife scene. Paros feels like the “real” Greek island—authentic and traditional, unlike the more tourist-oriented atmosphere of Santorini and Mykonos. When we travel, we enjoy meeting locals, eating like locals, and experiencing everyday life, which Paros offers in abundance.
THINGS TO DO
Paros offers a relaxed and enchanting experience, where the main activity is simply exploring its beautiful towns. These towns don’t boast famous landmarks or museums but charm you with their picturesque streets and vibrant atmosphere. Wander around and get lost in narrow alleys adorned with colorful doors, blooming flowers, and charming local shops. Discover hidden cafés, quiet corners, and stunning views that make each town a delight to explore at your own pace.
Naousa
Naousa is the most well-known town in Paros, located in the north of the island. This charming fishing village boasts a picturesque harbor filled with colorful fishing boats and lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s not uncommon to see octopuses hanging to dry outside the taverns. The town is home to the ruins of a 15th-century Venetian Fortress, adding a historical touch to its appeal. Naoussa has a more upscale vibe compared to other towns on the island, with a higher concentration of luxury hotels, making it a popular place to stay, albeit more expensive than other areas. The harbor is particularly beautiful at sunset, offering stunning views and a lively atmosphere. A popular photo spot is in front of Café Linardo, though it may not always be open during the off-season.
Lefkes
Lefkes is a traditional and picturesque town with a population of just 500. Nestled on a hill at an altitude of 300 meters above sea level, it offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere. The town’s main square, home to the Church of Agia Triada, is surrounded by charming bars with flower-adorned terraces, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance that makes it hard to leave. A popular photo spot in Lefkes is a corner house adorned with vibrant bougainvillea flowers. While it’s not located in the very center of the old town, it’s just a short five-minute walk into a small neighborhood. Here is the link to the location
Parikia
Parikia is the capital town of Paros and the main port of the island. The town is filled with restaurants, bars, and shops, which tend to be more affordable compared to those in Naousa. From our experience, the places we visited offered good-quality food at reasonable prices. A lovely seaside boulevard stretches along the town, perfect for a leisurely walk or a romantic dinner with tables set right on the sidewalk, offering views of the sea. Parikia also provides another great spot to watch the sunset.
Marpissa
We were recommended to have lunch or dinner in Marpissa, so we decided to visit and had a lovely meal at Charoula’s Tavern. The food was delicious, and I instantly fell in love with their terrace, which was tucked away among trees, creating a cosy atmosphere. Marpissa also has an “Instagram-worthy” spot — a charming pink door that’s hard to miss, as the village is quite small. Additionally, I really enjoyed visiting the Euangelismós Church, so it’s worth a stop if you find yourself in this village.
Aliki
We were also told that Aliki, a fishing village, is very beautiful and has great beaches and food. Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to visit, but since it was recommended by locals, I believe it’s definitely worth a visit.
Beach hopping
We visited only one beach, but I’m sure it was definitely the best one – Kolymbithres Beach, known for its crystal-clear water. It is very small, so it probably gets crowded during the peak season, but since we were there off-season, we almost had it all to ourselves. Although it’s a sandy beach, what makes it unique are the unusual granite rock formations surrounding it, giving it a vibe reminiscent of Seychelles. The receptionist at our hotel gave us several recommendations for other beautiful beaches. Chrissi Akti (Golden Beach) is known for having the biggest waves, making it perfect for water sports like windsurfing. Santa Maria Beach is considered the best overall beach, suitable for everyone with its shallow waters, making it especially ideal for families with kids. There are also water sports centers where you can book diving or windsurfing lessons. It’s surrounded by bars, restaurants, hotels, and even nightclubs or beach clubs. We also passed by Monastiri Beach as we wanted to visit Monastiri Church, which is right on the beach. Other recommended beaches from the hotel receptionist were Faragas Beach, Parasporos Beach, and Aliki Beach.
Sunset chasing
Watching the sunset in Paros is a magical experience, with the island glowing in golden light. Great spots to enjoy it include the Monastery of St. John’s at Monastiri Beach, the harbour of Naoussa, where the sun sets behind fishing boats, the Church of Agios Konstantinos in Parikia, offering panoramic views of the sea, and the port of Parikia, where the sunset reflects beautifully on the water. For a quieter option, Kolymbithres Beach, with its unique rock formations, is a perfect choice.
Boat Tour
A boat tour around Paros or Antiparos (smaller island right next to Paros) offers an unforgettable experience of exploring crystal-clear turquoise waters, hidden coves, and secluded beaches only accessible by sea. You can sail past stunning rock formations, such as the famous Blue Lagoon, and even visit caves like the Antiparos Cave. Many tours include snorkeling stops and a chance to enjoy a traditional Greek meal onboard. Whether you opt for a group excursion or a private charter, a boat tour is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty of these Cycladic islands.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS
Paros offers a delightful mix of traditional taverns, modern restaurants, and lively bars across its charming towns and beaches. In Naoussa, enjoy fresh seafood at Taverna Glafkos, nestled by the waterfront, or Mediterranean classics at Yemeni Taverna. For a traditional touch, visit Tsachpinis-Ouzeri ton Nautikon for authentic Greek flavors. In Parikia, savor innovative dishes at Levantis Restaurant, or hearty meals at Taverna Mouragio by the harbor. Don’t miss To Bountaraki, known for its cozy atmosphere and home-style Greek cooking. Over in Marpissa, Charoula’s Tavern serves delicious, traditional fare. For beachside dining, Siparos near Santa Maria and Blue Oyster on Golden Beach are highlights, while Aliki Restaurant Paros in Aliki provides excellent seaside views. Enjoy Paros Restaurant and Ververas Tavern also deliver exceptional meals with warm, local hospitality. End your day with a drink at Spiti House Bar in Parikia or Fotis All Day Bar in Naoussa for stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.
ACCOMMODATION
Paros offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. For luxury stays, you can choose from upscale resorts with stunning sea views and top-notch amenities. The island also boasts charming boutique hotels, offering a more intimate, personalized experience with stylish rooms and a relaxed atmosphere. Budget travellers will find affordable guesthouses and hostels, providing comfortable and convenient options for those looking to explore Paros without breaking the bank.
Luxury Hotels in Paros:
- Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort, Paros – A sophisticated resort with high-end amenities and elegant design.
- Lilly Residence-All Sea View Suites, Adults Only – A luxurious adults-only hotel offering stunning sea views.
- Cove Paros – A refined luxury resort with contemporary design and impeccable service.
- PAROCKS Luxury Hotel & Spa – A modern luxury hotel with a top-notch spa and panoramic views.
- Avant Mar Paros – A luxurious beachfront resort offering chic rooms and top-tier services.
- Andronis Minois – An upscale resort blending modern luxury with breathtaking Aegean views.
- Mythic Paros, Adults Only – A peaceful adults-only luxury hotel focused on privacy and luxury.
- Hotel Senia – Onar Hotels Collection – A stylish luxury hotel with a tranquil environment and sea views.
- Parilio, a Member of Design Hotels – A design-focused luxury hotel offering a unique and chic aesthetic.
- Saint Andrea Seaside Resort – Adults Only – An elegant adults-only luxury hotel with a beautiful beachfront setting.
- Summer Senses Luxury Resort – An upscale beachfront resort offering modern amenities, stylish rooms with stunning sea views
- Astir of Paros – Luxurious beachfront property offering top-notch facilities.
- Kanale’s Rooms & Suites – A luxury property offeing a blend of modern comfort and traditional Cycladic charm
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Boutique Hotels in Paros:
- Yria Island Boutique Hotel & Spa – A charming boutique hotel offering personalized services and a relaxing spa.
- Poseidon of Paros Hotel & Spa – A stylish boutique hotel with incredible sea views and intimate atmosphere.
- White Dunes Luxury Boutique Hotel – A minimalist boutique hotel with a personalized, luxurious experience.
- Paros Agnanti Resort & Spa – A boutique resort with serene surroundings and modern amenities.
- Paros Palace – A small boutique hotel offering traditional Greek architecture with stunning views.
- Mr and Mrs White Paros – A stylish boutique hotel offering a combination of luxury and intimate service.
- Bohemian Luxury Boutique Hotel – A boho chic hotel offering a trendy, laid-back atmosphere with luxe touches.
- Zefi Hotel – A Cycladic-style boutique hotel in the heart of Naousa.
- Calme Boutique Hotel – Adults Only – An elegant, adults-only retreat offering serene accommodations with a focus on relaxation and personalized service.
- Sandaya Luxury Suites – A sophisticated, luxurious hotel featuring spacious suites, stunning sea views, and an exclusive atmosphere perfect for a tranquil getaway.
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Budget Hotels in Paros:
- Captain Manolis Hotel – A simple yet comfortable accommodation near the ferry port.
- Hotel Christina – An adults-only hotel with heated saltwater pools, comfortable rooms, and close proximity to the town centre
- Akrotiri Hotel – A budget hotel offering comfortable rooms with lovely balconies, fabulous sea views, and a relaxing pool area.
- Apollon Boutique Hotel – A stylish hotel offering modern amenities and a convenient location near the beach and attractions.
- Pension Sofia – A charming guesthouse with clean rooms, a beautiful garden, and friendly hospitality.
TRANSPORTATION
The best way to reach Paros is by ferry. While the island does have a domestic airport, flights are only available from Athens and tend to be expensive.
If you’re traveling to Paros from outside Greece, the easiest route is to fly to Athens International Airport and then take a ferry to the island.
We traveled to Paros from Santorini using the Blue Star Ferry, which took 3 hours and 15 minutes and cost €32. Another option was the SeaJet ferry, which is faster at just 2 hours but more expensive at €60—a difference we felt wasn’t worth the extra cost for only 45 minutes saved. All ferries arrive at Parikia, the island’s capital.
As we had a lot of luggage and hadn’t decided whether to rent a car, scooter, or ATV right away, we chose to stay in Parikia near the port. The island is small, so where you stay doesn’t matter much as long as you have a vehicle, making it easy to explore. That said, Parikia is worth considering as it’s not only the capital but also less expensive compared to the more touristy Naousa.
Parikia offers plenty of car, scooter, and ATV rental options, conveniently located near the port. We opted for a car at €20/day (visiting during the off-season in October; prices may be higher in peak season). Scooters were available for €15/day, and ATVs for around €30/day. You can book a car at RentalCars.
In summer, a local ferry operates to the nearby island of Antiparos, just 10 minutes away. Tickets are incredibly affordable at €1.20, making Antiparos a worthwhile addition to your trip. Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to visit, but it’s highly recommended.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Paros is during the late spring and early autumn months, from May to June and September to early October. During this period, the weather is warm and pleasant, and the island is less crowded than the peak summer months of July and August. It’s a perfect time to explore the island’s beautiful beaches, charming villages, and local culture without the summer rush, and prices are generally lower during the shoulder season. Keep in mind that the sea might be a bit cooler, and evenings can be slightly chilly, so packing a light jumper is recommended.
CURRENCY
Greece uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.
1 USD = 0,98 EUR
1 GBP = 1,19 EUR
We recommend you to carry cash with you everywhere, as you won’t always be able to pay with card.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We recommend to book a travel insurance for every trip as you never know what could happen. It’s not easy to deal with any kind of problems when you are abroad, so it’s definitely worth it to be covered and travel with peace in mind.
We use IATI travel insurance and you can book yours through our link and receive 5% discount.
Book here if you are from EU: https://www.iatitravelinsurance.com/en-eu/?r=96181493877707
Book here if you are from the rest of the world: https://www.iatitravelinsurance.com/en/?r=96181493877707
eSIM
If you’re travelling and want to stay connected without dealing with roaming fees or physical SIM cards, an Airalo eSIM is a super convenient option. You can install it directly on your phone before you even arrive, giving you instant mobile data as soon as you land. It’s perfect for using maps, booking attractions, ordering transport, and staying online while exploring. No need to search for WiFi or buy a local SIM — everything is handled digitally in just a few minutes.
CONTINUE READING OTHER TRAVEL GUIDES FROM GREECE
We hope this blog post was helpful to you and you are gonna have a great time while exploring Paros. For more pictures and videos check out our IG story highlight (Paros) and our reels/feed posts. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to comment bellow or contact us via email or even better via Instagram @borntotraveldiaries. Thank you for your time and stay tuned for our next diary page 🙂.
